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QuizTraffic rulesSouth Africa

This interesting quiz helps you test your knowledge in a clear and visual way. With easy multiple-choice questions, you can quickly build confidence and learn new facts while keeping it simple, interactive, and fun.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
South Africa
True/false 17 South Africa 23 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 590
What should you do when joining a motorway from an entry lane?

201. What should you do when joining a motorway from an entry lane?

Enter at a low speed and let motorway traffic adjust.
Merge as soon as the entry lane begins.
Force your way into the nearest gap.
✓ Match your speed, check around you, and merge into a safe gap.

Use the entry lane to build a suitable speed, check carefully, signal, and merge only when it is safe.

Vehicle joining a motorway from an entry lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is a larger following distance needed at motorway speeds?

202. Why is a larger following distance needed at motorway speeds?

It keeps the engine from working too hard.
✓ You need more distance to react and stop safely.
It makes the vehicle easier to steer.
It prevents the tyres from becoming too warm.

At higher speeds, you travel farther during your reaction time and need more distance to brake. A larger gap gives you more time and space to stop safely.

Following distance between vehicles on a motorway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you follow the manufacturer's service schedule?

203. Why should you follow the manufacturer's service schedule?

It guarantees that no faults will develop between services.
It allows vehicle problems to be ignored until the next service.
It prevents normal wear on important vehicle components.
✓ Regular servicing can identify wear and maintain safety and reliability.

Scheduled servicing helps ensure that brakes, tyres, fluids, filters, steering, suspension, and other important systems are checked and maintained before faults become more serious.

Vehicle maintenance following a servicing schedule
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

204. What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

Only the tyres if the journey is long.
Only the fuel level and mirrors.
✓ Tyres, brakes, lights, steering, and controls.
Nothing if the motorcycle was recently serviced.

Before riding, carry out a basic safety check. Check the tyres, brakes, lights, steering and controls, and inspect the drive chain, belt or other drive components where applicable. Finding a problem before setting off can prevent a breakdown or loss of control.

Checking a motorcycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid placing objects on or over an airbag cover?

205. Why should you avoid placing objects on or over an airbag cover?

They could make the dashboard harder to clean.
They could make the airbag deploy too slowly.
✓ They could interfere with deployment and become dangerous projectiles.
They could cause the airbag warning light to stay on.

Do not place or attach objects over an airbag cover or in an airbag's deployment area. They may interfere with the airbag as it inflates and could be thrown towards occupants when the airbag deploys.

Objects placed over a vehicle's airbag cover
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why must a roof load be securely attached?

206. Why must a roof load be securely attached?

Because light roof loads cannot be affected by the wind.
To keep the vehicle within its normal height.
✓ It could shift or fall and create a serious hazard.
To stop the roof rack from increasing fuel consumption.

A roof load is exposed to strong airflow and movement. It must be restrained correctly and kept within the permitted limits.

Load secured to a vehicle's roof
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an object falls into the driver's footwell while driving?

207. What should you do if an object falls into the driver's footwell while driving?

✓ Keep control and stop safely before retrieving it.
Brake suddenly so the object moves forwards.
Keep driving unless the object touches a pedal.
Reach down and remove it while continuing to drive.

Do not reach down for an object while driving, as this takes your attention away from the road and can affect vehicle control. If something falls into the driver's footwell, keep control of the vehicle and stop somewhere safe before removing it.

Dropped object close to the driver's pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

208. What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

Use your horn repeatedly to express your frustration.
Keep your course and expect them to correct their mistake.
Drive closer so they notice your presence.
✓ Stay calm and avoid creating more danger.

Road users can make mistakes. Staying calm and reacting safely helps prevent crashes.

Driver responding to another road user's mistake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

209. Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

Motorcyclists cannot see vehicles directly behind them.
✓ Motorcycles can slow down quickly and are more vulnerable.
Motorcycles always travel more slowly than cars.
Following closely makes it easier to overtake safely.

Motorcyclists are more exposed than car drivers. Extra following distance gives you more time to react safely.

Following distance behind a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Can you assume that you are safe to drive the morning after drinking?

210. Can you assume that you are safe to drive the morning after drinking?

Yes, if you only need to drive a short distance.
Yes, if you feel completely sober.
Yes, if you eat breakfast before driving.
✓ No, alcohol may still remain in your body.

The body needs time to process alcohol. Sleeping, eating, showering, or drinking coffee does not instantly remove it.

Fitness to drive the morning after drinking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can you check that a manual gearbox is in neutral?

211. How can you check that a manual gearbox is in neutral?

✓ Move the gear lever gently from side to side.
Press the accelerator pedal.
Turn the steering wheel.
Pull up the parking brake.

When a manual gearbox is in neutral, the gear lever can normally be moved freely from side to side across the centre of the gear pattern. Check that neutral is selected before starting the engine when appropriate.

Checking neutral with a manual gear lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

212. What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.
Stop only when the barriers are fully lowered.
Follow the vehicle ahead across the tracks.
✓ Stop and wait until the barriers are completely open.

Never enter a railway crossing when barriers are closing or warning signals are active. Stop and wait until it is safe.

Barriers closing at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a long journey?

213. What should you check before starting a long journey?

Nothing if the vehicle was recently serviced.
✓ Tyres, lights, fluids, windows, mirrors, and essential equipment.
Only the tyres and fuel level.
Only the lights if you plan to drive at night.

A brief vehicle check can reveal tyre damage, low fluid levels, faulty lights, or visibility problems before they cause danger. Also confirm that any spare wheel or tyre-repair equipment is available and usable.

Vehicle safety checks before a long journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid unnecessary lane changes in roadworks?

214. Why should you avoid unnecessary lane changes in roadworks?

Lane changes are safer when traffic is moving slowly.
Changing lanes helps traffic move faster through roadworks.
✓ Narrow lanes and changing layouts increase the risk of collision.
Temporary lanes are designed for frequent lane changes.

Frequent lane changes create additional risk where space is limited and drivers are already adapting to temporary layouts.

Vehicles travelling through restricted roadworks lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

215. What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

Ignore the noise if the warning light later goes out.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.
Continue slowly if the vehicle still responds normally.
Wait until the next service to have it checked.

A red warning combined with an unusual noise may indicate a serious fault. Continuing could cause damage or loss of control.

Red dashboard warning requiring the driver's attention
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

216. What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

Use it only during daylight.
Keep using it if the weather is dry.
✓ Replace it before riding.
Cover the scratches with clear tape.

A badly scratched or damaged visor can reduce or distort your view, especially in bright sunlight or at night. Replace a visor that no longer provides a clear, safe view and follow the helmet manufacturer's instructions.

Scratched visor on a motorcycle helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the general motorway speed limit for cars in South Africa?

217. What is the general motorway speed limit for cars in South Africa?

✓ 120 km/h.
100 km/h.
110 km/h.
130 km/h.

The general motorway speed limit for cars in South Africa is 120 km/h, unless signs indicate otherwise.

Motorway speed limits for cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

218. Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

To make the trailer easier to steer.
To reduce tyre wear on the towing vehicle.
To keep the trailer from moving side to side.
✓ Your vehicle combination may take longer to stop.

Towing adds weight and can increase stopping distance. Extra space gives you more time to react and brake smoothly.

Vehicle towing a trailer behind other traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

219. What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

✓ Keep control, reduce speed, and move to a safe place if possible.
Stop immediately in the traffic lane.
Continue driving until the vehicle stops by itself.
Accelerate to see if the fault disappears.

Your first priority is to keep control of the vehicle. Reduce speed smoothly and move out of the path of traffic where possible, signalling when appropriate. Avoid harsh steering or braking unless necessary.

Vehicle stopped after developing a mechanical fault
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

220. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.
Continue driving until the battery is completely discharged.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you look well ahead while driving?

221. Why should you look well ahead while driving?

✓ To identify developing hazards early and gain more time to react.
To concentrate only on traffic in your lane.
To maintain the same speed in every situation.
To avoid checking your mirrors as often.

Looking well ahead helps you identify developing hazards early, such as slowing traffic, pedestrians, junctions, or changing road conditions. Earlier detection gives you more time to assess the situation and respond smoothly and safely.

Driver observing the road and traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

222. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-system warning.
Charging-system warning.
Power-steering warning.
✓ Service or maintenance required.

This symbol indicates that the vehicle requires servicing or maintenance. The exact meaning and required maintenance can vary between vehicles, so check the vehicle information display or owner's manual.

Service reminder symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you avoid if your vehicle loses grip on a wet road?

223. What should you avoid if your vehicle loses grip on a wet road?

✓ Sudden braking or sharp steering.
Holding the steering wheel firmly.
Looking ahead and staying alert.
Keeping your movements smooth and controlled.

Abrupt inputs can upset the vehicle further. Smooth control gives the tyres a better chance to regain grip.

Vehicle losing grip on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which side do people drive on in South Africa?

224. Which side do people drive on in South Africa?

✓ Left-hand side.
Right-hand side.

Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road in South Africa.

Road traffic and the designated driving side
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you reduce speed in fog?

225. Why should you reduce speed in fog?

To prevent the windscreen from misting.
To reduce vehicle emissions.
✓ Because you have less time to react to hazards you cannot see.
To reduce fuel consumption.

Fog can hide obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Lower speed gives you more time to react.

Fog limiting a driver's view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before starting an automatic vehicle?

226. What should you normally do before starting an automatic vehicle?

✓ Select P or N and press the brake pedal.
Select D and press the accelerator.
Select R and release the parking brake.
Leave the selector between two positions.

Before starting an automatic vehicle, make sure P (Park) or N (Neutral) is selected and press the brake pedal. Many automatic vehicles will only allow the engine to start when these conditions are met.

Gear selector and brake before starting an automatic vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

227. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Low tyre pressure.
Brake-system warning.
Engine-management warning.
Power-steering warning.

This symbol indicates that one or more tyres may have low pressure. Check the tyre pressures and inspect the tyres for damage or a puncture.

Tyre-pressure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

228. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Mirror folding.
✓ Exterior mirror adjustment.
Seat adjustment.
Central door locking.

This control adjusts the vehicle's exterior mirrors. The driver normally selects the left or right mirror and then moves the control to change its angle.

Control for adjusting the exterior mirrors
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

229. Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

Ignore markings and follow only the vehicle ahead.
✓ The temporary markings that show the current traffic route.
Follow the old permanent markings if they are still visible.
Use the markings intended for construction vehicles.

Temporary road markings may replace the normal lane layout during roadworks. Follow the markings and signs that currently guide traffic.

Temporary road markings through a roadworks area
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What may happen when you press the accelerator fully in an automatic vehicle?

230. What may happen when you press the accelerator fully in an automatic vehicle?

The parking brake applies automatically.
The transmission selects Park.
✓ The transmission may shift to a lower gear for stronger acceleration.
The engine switches off.

In many automatic vehicles, pressing the accelerator fully can activate kickdown, causing the transmission to select a lower gear and provide stronger acceleration.

Accelerator-pedal operation for automatic kickdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

231. Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

Road salt is less effective on bridges.
Bridges are always at a higher altitude.
Their barriers trap cold air on the road surface.
✓ Cold air circulates above and below them.

Bridges lose heat from both their upper and lower surfaces, so they can freeze before roads built directly on the ground.

Icy surface on an exposed bridge
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if steam begins coming from underneath the bonnet?

232. What should you do if steam begins coming from underneath the bonnet?

Continue driving slowly until the steam stops.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and keep clear until it has cooled.
Open the coolant cap to release the pressure.
Pour cold water over the engine immediately.

Steam can indicate an overheated and pressurised cooling system. Do not remove the coolant cap while the system is hot.

Steam rising from underneath a vehicle's bonnet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with a manual parking brake before driving away?

233. What should you do with a manual parking brake before driving away?

Apply it only after moving off.
Pull it up further.
✓ Release it fully.
Leave it partly applied.

The manual parking brake should be released fully before driving away. Driving with it partly applied can cause unnecessary brake wear and overheating.

Releasing a manual handbrake before driving away
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

234. What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

✓ It switches the headlights on or off automatically when needed.
It switches on the front fog lights.
It keeps the main beam switched on.
It switches on the hazard warning lights.

The AUTO lighting setting allows the vehicle to switch its exterior lights on or off automatically according to ambient light conditions. The driver remains responsible for ensuring that the correct lights are being used.

AUTO setting on the vehicle's lighting control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which pedal is used to slow down or stop the vehicle?

235. Which pedal is used to slow down or stop the vehicle?

The footrest.
✓ The brake pedal.
The accelerator pedal.
The clutch pedal.

The brake pedal is used to reduce the vehicle's speed or bring it to a stop. In a manual vehicle, it is the middle pedal.

Brake pedal in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally hold the steering wheel while driving?

236. How should you normally hold the steering wheel while driving?

✓ With both hands in a balanced position.
With both hands together at the bottom.
With one hand at the top of the wheel.
With one hand resting on the gear lever.

Hold the steering wheel with both hands in a balanced position so that you can steer smoothly and react quickly. A position around nine and three o'clock generally provides good control.

Driver holding the steering wheel with both hands
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

237. Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

✓ To maintain good control and a clear view around the vehicle.
To make the steering and pedals easier to operate.
To improve the grip of the tyres.
To reduce the vehicle's stopping distance.

A correct driving position helps you operate the pedals and steering comfortably and maintain proper control. Correctly adjusted mirrors improve your view around the vehicle and help reduce blind spots. Adjust both before starting your journey.

Adjusting the driving position and mirrors before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when traffic is merging from another lane?

238. What should you do when traffic is merging from another lane?

Speed up slightly so they can merge behind you.
Maintain your speed and expect them to merge behind you.
✓ Adjust your speed and leave space when safe.
Move into another lane without checking around you.

When traffic merges, good observation and speed control help vehicles join safely without sudden braking or conflict.

Vehicle merging from an adjacent lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you increase your following distance on wet roads?

239. Why should you increase your following distance on wet roads?

Because vehicles ahead have priority in rain.
To reduce road surface damage.
✓ Because braking distances are longer.
Because wet roads make the speedometer less accurate.

Water reduces grip between the tyres and the road, so it takes longer to slow down or stop safely.

Following distance between vehicles on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check after fitting a wheel?

240. What should you check after fitting a wheel?

That the tyre is touching the wheel arch.
That the wheel nuts are covered by the trim.
That the jack remains partly under the vehicle.
✓ That the wheel nuts are tightened correctly.

After fitting a wheel, make sure the wheel nuts are tightened correctly using the manufacturer's specified procedure and torque. Incorrectly tightened wheel nuts can loosen or damage the wheel. Recheck them later if the vehicle or wheel manufacturer recommends it.

Checking wheel nuts after fitting a wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

241. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Front fog lights.
Dipped headlights.
✓ Main beam.
Sidelights.

This symbol indicates that the main beam headlights are switched on. Main beam illuminates the road farther ahead but can dazzle other road users, so it should be changed to dipped headlights when necessary.

Main-beam headlight symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the seat-belt retractor?

242. What is the purpose of the seat-belt retractor?

✓ To take up slack and lock the belt when necessary.
To release the seat belt from the buckle.
To tighten the parking brake.
To adjust the seat height.

The seat-belt retractor takes up slack and helps keep the belt properly positioned against the body. It allows normal movement but can lock during sudden braking, rapid belt movement or a collision.

Seat-belt webbing and retracting mechanism
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main emergency number in South Africa?

243. What is the main emergency number in South Africa?

✓ 112.
111.
911.
000.

The main emergency number in South Africa is 112.

112 emergency telephone number
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should you normally wait after a breakdown on a high-speed road?

244. Where should you normally wait after a breakdown on a high-speed road?

In front of the vehicle while facing approaching traffic.
Immediately behind the vehicle so you remain visible.
Between the vehicle and the safety barrier.
✓ Behind a safety barrier and well away from the vehicle and traffic.

A stationary vehicle can be struck by passing traffic. Waiting behind a barrier provides better protection.

People waiting behind a safety barrier after a breakdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

245. What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

✓ Slow down and stay in your lane.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely through the curve.
Brake only after entering the curve if necessary.
Move slightly toward the centre for a better view.

A curve can hide oncoming traffic, obstacles, cyclists, or pedestrians. Reduce speed and keep a safe position.

Road bend with a restricted view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

246. What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

✓ Do not drive.
Drive slowly and avoid motorways.
Drink coffee before driving.
Drive only on familiar roads.

Drugs can impair judgement, coordination, concentration, and reaction time. Their effects can be unpredictable and may continue after you feel that the main effects have passed. Do not drive while impaired.

Drug impairment and the decision not to drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

247. How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

By looking at whether the tyres appear firm.
Using the maximum pressure shown on the tyre.
Only by a certified maintenance service.
✓ When the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended pressure.

Tyre pressure rises as tyres become warm. Check them when cold and use the pressure specified on the vehicle label or in the owner's manual.

Checking a vehicle's tyre pressure
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

248. Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

N (Neutral).
R (Reverse).
✓ P (Park).
D (Drive).

Select P (Park) when parking an automatic vehicle. Park locks the transmission, but the parking brake should also be applied to secure the vehicle.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

249. What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

Let them walk slightly ahead of you.
Let them run once the first lane is clear.
✓ Hold their hand and keep them close.
Ask them to decide when it is safe to cross.

Children can be unpredictable near traffic. Keep them close and guide them safely across the road.

Adult holding a child's hand while crossing the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

250. How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

Pump the pedal repeatedly.
Use the parking brake instead.
Press it as hard as possible immediately.
✓ Apply pressure progressively.

For normal braking, apply the brake pedal progressively and smoothly. As the vehicle comes to a stop, easing the pressure slightly can help avoid a sudden jerk.

Progressive brake-pedal pressure for a smooth stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA